Identification
Softshells lack horny plates on the shell, which are instead covered with a
leathery skin. The carapace is broad, flat, and round, and lacks the spines
of other softshell species. It also lacks dark spots and markings on the carapace
and limbs. This species’ carapace is pale brown with a yellowish margin,
with a dark line bordering toward the middle. The head and limbs are brown and
are shaded with yellow or olive. A yellow stripe runs from the tip of the elongated
snout through the eye and onto the neck (except in older females). The underside
of the turtle is white, and often has bluish tinting over the plastral bones.
The webbing of the feet can be bluish, grey, or yellow, and are often unmarked
but they may sometimes display some dark speckles.
Distribution and Status
The bulk of the distribution for the Midland Smooth Softshell centers around
Midwestern and Midsouthern rivers; following the Mississippi to central Minnesota,
the Missouri through southern North Dakota, and the Ohio to western Pennsylvania.
Populations extend through eastern Nebraska, Kansas and Oklahoma, and eastern
Texas. In the Midwest, this species occurs in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa
and Missouri, and is a species of Special Concern in Wisconsin and Minnesota.
(US distribution
map; Midwest
distribution map).
Ecology
A speedy and strong swimmer, this species spends most of its time in or near
the water, but can move quickly on land as well. Midland Smooth Softshells prefer
larger streams with current, fairly clear water, and a sandy bottom. They also
spend time basking on sand bars or banks, sometimes in groups.
Threats and Management Issues
Midland Smooth Softshell populations are declining due to human factors, such
as agricultural runoff and pollution.
Resources
Ernst. C. H., J. E. Lovich and R. W. Barbour. 1994. Turtles of the United States and Canada. Smithsonian Institution Press, USA.
General reference guides and websites.
Links to more information on the Midland Smooth Softshell Turtle outside the Herp Center
Illinois Natural History Survey
Bruce Kingsbury, Director
Center for Reptile and Amphibian Conservation and Management
Science Building
Indiana-Purdue University
2101 East Coliseum Blvd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1499